Opposition Leader Sajith meets Nirmala Sitharaman
05-Nov-2025.
Opposition Leader Sajith Premadasa has called for the renewal of the Indo–Sri Lanka Free Trade Agreement in line with modern trade realities.
He also stressed the importance of aligning economic policies with innovation, public–private partnerships, research, and business sectors, following India’s model.
During his official visit to Delhi, Premadasa met Indian Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman on 04 November 2025. The two discussed deepening bilateral economic cooperation and regional integration.
Minister Sitharaman praised Sri Lanka’s natural endowments and human talent and highlighted the importance of engaging closely with India’s evolving economy to build upon these strengths.
She noted that accessing large markets such as India’s could rapidly advance Sri Lanka’s industrial sector, while strengthening domestic industries would enhance Sri Lanka’s economic sovereignty.
Premadasa expressed gratitude for India’s US$4 billion assistance during the 2022 crisis—the largest single financial support extended to Sri Lanka by any country.
While commending India’s achievements in industrial policy and digital governance, Premadasa pointed out that despite relative stabilization, Sri Lanka continues to face major challenges in rebuilding foreign reserves, diversifying exports, and alleviating poverty.
Both parties agreed on the need for transparent, trust-based cooperation. Premadasa proposed establishing a Sri Lanka–India technology and industrial zone to promote joint ventures and technology transfer.
He reiterated his call to renew the Indo–Sri Lanka FTA to reflect contemporary trade conditions and underscored the importance of linking economic policy with innovation, public–private enterprise, research, and commerce, following India’s model.
Premadasa added that his party, the Samagi Jana Balawegaya (SJB), is committed to strengthening Sri Lanka’s close economic and cultural ties with India based on mutual respect and long-term partnership.
